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General practitioners (GPs) work in the community to promote good health and prevent illness, in addition to diagnosing patients' health problems by examining them, either in the surgery or at the patient's home. Having made a diagnosis, they may give general advice, prescribe medicine or treatment, conduct minor surgery or refer the patient to a specialist consultant for tests and further diagnosis.

GPs usually work as part of a team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, health visitors and administrative support staff. They are responsible for running their practice, planning and providing treatment, and commissioning healthcare from other health professionals.

In addition to individual consultations, the work may involve organising preventative medical programmes and health education for various patient groups, such as winter flu vaccinations for the elderly.

Entry level

To become a doctor, you must study for an undergraduate or postgraduate medical degree recognised by the General Medical Council. This usually takes several years. Medical schools welcome applications from suitably qualified mature students, although entry is even more difficult than normal after the age of 30.

Competition for places to read medicine is exceptionally fierce. In addition to outstanding grades at A level or equivalent, you must show that you have a genuine interest in the subject and, ideally, produce evidence of relevant paid or voluntary work experience.

Admissions tutors are also likely to consider your personal skills and qualities to assess your suitability for the rigours of the course and the demands of a medical career. They look for a responsible attitude, personal integrity and good communication skills.

You will find that medical schools differ widely in their teaching methods and organisation of the curriculum. It is therefore essential to research courses thoroughly in order to find one that suits your own interests and learning style.

Making the grade

As you complete your degree, you must obtain a provisional registration with the General Medical Council before starting two years of foundation training, leading to the Foundation Achievement of Competency Document. At this stage, you must decide whether to train as a GP or as a specialist and you continue with further studies, which are currently being re-thought (autumn 2005).

Personal qualities

To succeed as a GP, you must be dedicated to your work, absorbing considerable quantities of scientific and technical information while developing highly tuned listening and communication skills. You would need the ability to put people at their ease and inspire their trust and confidence, the skill to examine patients and perform clinical procedures, and the stamina to work under pressure and make quick clear decisions.

You would be expected to update your knowledge continually and show a willingness to learn new techniques.